Work Experience

Work Experience at Switalskis

For the next generation

Our work experience programme is designed to provide a glimpse into the legal world, helping you to make informed career decisions while gaining a real-world perspective on legal practice.

The programme offers practical learning and professional growth to various legal areas under the mentorship of our experienced solicitors. Discover the day-to-day operations of one of the UK’s most reputable law firms and engage with professionals who are keen on sharing their knowledge.

Switalskis’ work experience programme is a stepping stone towards a successful legal career. With practical exposure, mentorship and networking opportunities, undertaking work experience with us will help you towards becoming a well-informed legal professional.

Key features of our work experience programme

  1. Practical exposure: gain first-hand experience in different legal departments, observing and participating in real case scenarios.
  2. Mentorship: receive guidance from seasoned legal practitioners, enhancing your understanding of law in practice.
  3. Professional networking: connect with industry professionals, building a network that could be beneficial for your future legal career.
  4. Skill development: develop essential skills such as legal research, communication and problem-solving in a professional setting.
  5. Community engagement: participate in our community outreach initiatives, understanding the broader impact of legal practice on society.

Am I eligible?

In order to be considered for work experience at Switalskis, you must be:

  • Aged 18 years or over
  • Studying for a law degree or have a keen interest in law
  • Available for one or two weeks unpaid work experience

Due to the high volume of applications, placements are limited and not all service areas have availability to take on work experience.

How to apply

The deadline for applications for 2023 has now passed. This page will be updated when the next round of applications is open.

Why Switalskis?

Our team includes seasoned solicitors across various legal disciplines who provide a supportive environment where you can comfortably learn, ask questions and enhance your understanding of the legal profession.

The work experience programme at Switalskis immerses you in the day-to-day operations of one of the UK’s most reputable law firms, providing a realistic view of the legal profession.

We believe in nurturing the next generation of legal professionals. Our solicitors are committed to sharing their expertise and providing guidance. Our efforts have been recognised as we were named in the top 50 fastest growing companies in Yorkshire in TheBusinessDesk.com’s Yorkshire Growth Index 2023 and we won ‘Large Firm of the Year’ at the Yorkshire Legal Awards 2023.

Building a professional network is invaluable in the legal sector. Through our work experience programme, you’ll interact with industry professionals, fostering relationships that could be beneficial in your future career. 

Life at Switalskis

An insight into the Switalskis team

Find out what our employees have to say about their experience at Switalskis:

Photo of Laura Cates

I enjoy hybrid working. When I am in the office, I use this as time to speak with colleagues about their thoughts on cases and anything relevant within the news for example, a judgment. When I am at home, I use this time to complete detailed pieces of work without the distraction of the office. I’m also able to get out on a lunch time to walk my Sproodle!

Laura CatesAssociate Solicitor
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photo of Emily Chan

I’ve always known I wanted to help people but ruled out several professions before deciding on law. The first seat of my training contract was in commercial property, working between the Leeds and Knaresborough offices. I found the work very interesting especially drafting documents. I recently moved to the clinical negligence team, for my second seat, which I am finding both stimulating and challenging. Since joining, my integration into Switalskis has been seamless as everyone has been very welcoming and inviting.  I think it helped that I often brought in brownies and cakes that I’d baked!

Emily ChanTrainee Solicitor
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photo of Becky Whitfield

In 2012 I joined the Costs Team and in 2014 started studying the ACL Costs Lawyer course. I qualified as a Costs Lawyer in August 2017 and in 2023 I was promoted to Associate Costs Lawyer. I've not worked anywhere prior to Atherton Godfrey who integrated with Switalskis in December 2022, my entire career since the 90s has been at the same firm.

Becky WhitfieldAssociate Costs Lawyer
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photo of Fiona Haigh

I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when I left school. I thought I wanted to be a hairdresser, and this is what I ended up doing, but if I’m honest I never really felt like it was for me. I worked hard and achieved my qualifications but never felt content. However, I always had an interest in the legal profession due to personal circumstances and I enrolled on an access course when I was 26 and here, I am!

Fiona HaighTrainee Solicitor
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Photo of Hannah Cazaly

I start my day by responding to any emails. I then check my task list and I complete any urgent tasks first. I complete records reviews, draft letters of instruction to experts and review expert reports. I also have cases that are in litigation where deadlines need to be adhered to and documents must be served. I also liaise with clients on a daily basis providing updates and taking instructions.

Hannah CazalyAssociate Solicitor
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photo of Rhiannon Moore

There’s not a typical day in the Court of Protection, and that’s what I love most about it. Each client is so different and so we need to be able to take each client as they come to try and work out what will be best for them and how best to achieve it. I love travelling and meeting the clients but there is also lot of time in the office - preparing advice, drafting documents, and attending court, as many of our hearings are still being heard remotely.

Rhiannon MooreSolicitor Apprentice
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Got a question?

If you have any questions about our work experience programme, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Call us on 0800 138 0458 or send us a message and we’ll be happy to help.

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